When heading out for a walk, whether on a short trail or through city streets, having the right rucksack can make all the difference. The best small rucksack for walking should be lightweight, durable, and have enough space for your essentials. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best small rucksacks perfect for walking, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your next adventure.
1. Osprey Daylite Plus Pack
The Osprey Daylite Plus Pack is one of the top picks for those looking for a reliable small rucksack for walking. With a 20L capacity, it’s perfect for carrying water bottles, snacks, and other essentials without being too bulky.
Capacity: 20L
Weight: 0.49 kg
Best for: Short walks, day hikes
Key Features:
Hydration sleeve for easy water access
Ventilated back panel for breathability
Large main compartment with organizational pockets
The Daylite Plus strikes a great balance between capacity and weight, making it perfect for both urban explorers and those heading out for a day hike.
2. Deuter Speed Lite 16
For a minimalist design without compromising on comfort, the Deuter Speed Lite 16 stands out. Its 16L capacity ensures you can pack what you need for a day, and its streamlined design makes it feel much lighter than it is.
Capacity: 16L
Weight: 0.37 kg
Best for: Fast-paced walking, short trails
Key Features:
Ergonomically shaped shoulder straps for comfort
Lightweight construction
Stretch side pockets for extra storage
The Speed Lite 16 is ideal for walkers who prefer to travel light without sacrificing comfort or functionality.
3. The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack
For those who prefer a smaller, more compact bag, the The North Face Borealis Mini Backpack is an excellent choice. It combines practicality with a sleek design, perfect for urban walking or short outdoor adventures.
Capacity: 10L
Weight: 0.5 kg
Best for: City walks, short day trips
Key Features:
External bungee system for additional storage
Padded shoulder straps for all-day comfort
Compact size for minimalists
Though small, the Borealis Mini offers plenty of organization options for essentials like phones, wallets, and small water bottles.
4. Patagonia Atom Sling
The Patagonia Atom Sling offers a unique twist on the traditional rucksack, with a sling-style design that makes it easy to access your gear on the go. Its compact size and lightweight build make it ideal for short walks or city excursions.
Capacity: 8L
Weight: 0.3 kg
Best for: Urban walking, light hikes
Key Features:
Sling-style design for easy access
Comfortable, padded shoulder strap
Multiple compartments for organization
The Atom Sling is perfect for those who prioritize ease of use and prefer to keep things simple during their walks.
5. Berghaus 24/7 20L Backpack
With its simple yet durable design, the Berghaus 24/7 20L Backpack is a top choice for those who want a versatile pack for both everyday use and walking trips. Its 20L capacity makes it ideal for carrying essentials without feeling weighed down.
Capacity: 20L
Weight: 0.45 kg
Best for: Day hikes, urban exploration
Key Features:
Durable construction for longevity
Padded back panel for comfort
Hydration system compatibility
The Berghaus 24/7 is a go-to for walkers looking for a reliable, affordable option that can handle a variety of situations.
6. Lowe Alpine AirZone Z 20
If you’re looking for maximum ventilation, the Lowe Alpine AirZone Z 20 is a fantastic option. Its AirZone back system ensures that your back stays cool and dry, even during longer walks.
Capacity: 20L
Weight: 0.81 kg
Best for: Long-distance walks, warm climates
Key Features:
AirZone back system for breathability
Adjustable straps for a custom fit
Stretch mesh pockets for extra storage
Though slightly heavier than some other options, the comfort and ventilation provided by the AirZone Z 20 make it worth the extra grams.
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7. Fjällräven Kånken Mini
The Fjällräven Kånken Mini has a cult following, and for good reason. With its distinctive boxy design, this compact rucksack is perfect for casual walkers who want something stylish yet functional.
Capacity: 7L
Weight: 0.22 kg
Best for: Urban walks, casual outings
Key Features:
Lightweight design
Durable, water-resistant fabric
Two side pockets for water bottles
The Kånken Mini may not be the largest pack, but it offers enough space for essentials while being lightweight and easy to carry.
8. CamelBak Arete 18 Hydration Pack
For those who need easy access to water during their walks, the CamelBak Arete 18 Hydration Pack is an ideal solution. It comes with a built-in hydration bladder, making it easy to stay hydrated on the go.
Capacity: 18L
Weight: 0.28 kg
Best for: Hydration-focused walking, day hikes
Key Features:
Built-in hydration bladder
Lightweight and compressible
Versatile design for both walking and hiking
The Arete 18 is perfect for walkers who like to stay hydrated without needing to stop and take out a bottle.
9. Gregory Miwok 18
The Gregory Miwok 18 is known for its comfort and versatility, making it a great choice for those who want a small rucksack that can handle a variety of walking conditions. Its adjustable harness system ensures a custom fit, while the lightweight design keeps it from feeling bulky.
Capacity: 18L
Weight: 0.67 kg
Best for: Day hikes, all-day walks
Key Features:
Adjustable harness system for a perfect fit
Hydration sleeve for water reservoirs
Front stretch pocket for extra storage
With a balance of comfort and functionality, the Miwok 18 is ideal for walkers who prioritize fit and organization.
10. Vaude Wizard 18+4
For those who need a bit of flexibility in their rucksack size, the Vaude Wizard 18+4 offers an expandable design, allowing you to increase the capacity by an additional 4L. This makes it a versatile option for walkers who might need a bit of extra space from time to time.
Capacity: 18L (expandable to 22L)
Weight: 0.93 kg
Best for: Versatile use, day hikes
Key Features:
Expandable design for extra space
Adjustable back system for comfort
Ventilated back panel for breathability
The Wizard 18+4’s expandable design makes it one of the most versatile small rucksacks on the market, perfect for walkers who may need extra room for longer walks or variable weather conditions.
How to Choose the Best Small Rucksack for Walking
When selecting the best small rucksack for walking, it’s essential to consider a few key factors:
1. Capacity
The capacity of your rucksack will depend on how much gear you need to carry. For short walks, a 10-16L rucksack should be sufficient, while longer walks might require a 20L pack.
2. Weight
The weight of your rucksack is crucial for comfort, especially on longer walks. Look for a lightweight design that won’t weigh you down but still offers enough durability and support.
3. Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to choosing the best small rucksack for walking. Features like padded shoulder straps, adjustable harnesses, and ventilated back panels can make a significant difference.
4. Hydration Compatibility
For longer walks, having easy access to water is essential. Many small rucksacks come with hydration bladder sleeves, making it easy to stay hydrated without needing to stop and take out a bottle.
5. Durability
Your rucksack should be able to withstand the elements and regular use. Look for packs made from durable, water-resistant materials that can handle both urban and outdoor environments.
Conclusion
Whether you’re embarking on a day hike or a short walk through the city, having the right rucksack can make a world of difference. From hydration-focused packs to versatile expandable designs, these 10 small rucksacks offer the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and durability for walking enthusiasts.